Jack Grealish just about succeeded in dragging Aston Villa to Premier League safety last season to the delirium of his fans. The question hanging over Villa Park this summer, however, is where the captain will be plying his trade next season. It looks unlikely to be Villa.
Even with Grealish in the side it was an uphill battle for Dean Smith’s men. You feel that whenever the inevitable does occur it’s crucial that they invest the fee wisely. A new striker is desperately needed.
Predicted Lineup
To say last season was Grealish and 10 others would be slightly harsh on John McGinn but not that far off the truth. Grealish was by far the star in Fantrax terms but McGinn was putting up some very tasty numbers prior to his long term injury. It’ll be interesting to see where the Scot goes in this summer’s drafts but he’s definitely one to pick if he falls past round five.
Trezeguet became a bit of a cult hero thanks to his late season magic, securing crucial wins over Crystal Palace and Arsenal, but it remains to be seen whether this Egyptian winger can produce it on a regular basis.
The big dilemma lies up front as in Mbwana Samatta and the injured Wesley, Smith has two misfiring front men to choose between. Keinan Davis isn’t the answer.
Last season’s star players
- Jack Grealish, 434 points, 12.06ppg
- John McGinn, 264 points, 9.54ppg
- Anwar El Ghazi, 232.5 points, 6.84ppg
- Trezeguet, 216.5 points, 6.37ppg
- Matt Targett, 196 points, 7ppg
Set Piece Takers
Free kicks – Hourihane, Grealish
Corners – Hourihane, Grealish
Penalties – Grealish
Ones two watch
In terms of the current crop, Matt Targett and Frederic Guilbert are very good streamable option. The former has an eye for a key pass while the latter is busy when it comes to defending, picking up easy points for tackles and interceptions which makes him playable in some of the tougher fixtures too.
I like the look of John McGinn too while Trezeguet is worth a punt. Steer clear of the strikers though, it’s just not worth it. Connor Hourihane seems to dominate set piece duty which can lead to some massive scores without goals or assists for him. He’s far too unpredictable to spend an early draft pick on though.
It’s been fairly quiet so far on the transfer front but that will all change if/when Grealish departs. Liverpool forward Divock Origi has been heavily linked with a move to Villa and is certainly usable if he makes the move.
Fantasy Football 92 